Statement by Minister of State Gosal Inviting Canadians to Experience the FIFA 2015 Women's World Cup Trophy Tour

GATINEAU, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - March 20, 2015) - I encourage Canadians across the country to take part in the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca Cola. This is an exciting once-in-a-lifetime chance for Canadians to get up close to one of the most coveted trophies in women's sport.

With less than three months until the start of the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015, it is time for Canada to show our colours, our pride and our enthusiasm as we gear up to host the largest and most prestigious women's soccer tournament in the world. Our national women's team is prepared to face their toughest competitors here on home soil, and our nation-from coast to coast to coast-has never been more ready to cheer them on. Let's hear you, Canada!

This tournament, a signature event during the Year of Sport in Canada, will give us the chance to see our best female soccer players perform on the world stage, as they capture the hearts of our nation and inspire women and girls across the country to participate and excel in sport.

When we embrace the power of sport and lead more active lifestyles, we not only benefit individually, but we also build healthier, stronger communities. Our Government is committed to helping Canadians-and especially our children-become and stay more active. This is why we have doubled the Children's Fitness Tax Credit to $1,000. This change, which has already taken effect, will help parents offset the costs of enrolling their children in organized sports. We are a leading sport nation and we want to keep it that way.

Our Government, through Sport Canada's Hosting Program, is proud to provide up to $15 million to support both last year's FIFA U20 Women's World Cup Canada 2014 and the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015 this summer. Hosting these tournaments provides lasting sport excellence, sport development and community benefits in the host cities and provinces, as well as throughout our great country.